NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Wildfire Update July 31

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 31, 2025

    As of 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 31, there are 57 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Of those active fires, two are categorized as contained, 13 are not contained, 27 are ongoing assessments and 15 are listed as protecting values. 

    12 communities are currently under an evacuation order: Resort Subdivision of Lac La Plonge; La Plonge Reserve; Northern Village of Beauval; Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay; Resort Subdivision of Ramsey Bay; Patuanak/English River First Nation; Northern Village of Pinehouse; Canoe Lake Cree First Nation/Canoe Narrows; Île-à-la-Crosse; Resort Subdivision of Cole Bay; and Resort Subdivision of Little Amyot Lake. Clearwater River Dene Nation has issued an evacuation order as of this afternoon.

    A full list of evacuated communities can be found on the Active Evacuations webpage. 

    Any evacuees should register through the Sask Evac Web Application and then call 1-855-559-5502 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to have their needs assessed for additional assistance. Individuals who need help registering through the application can call the 855 Line for assistance. 

    Evacuees supported by the Canadian Red Cross should call 1-800-863-6582.

    As a reminder, there is a fire ban that is still in place due to the extreme fire risk. The fire ban encompasses the area north of the provincial forest boundary up to the Churchill River. The fire ban prohibits any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks in the designated boundary. This includes provincial parks, provincial recreation sites and the Northern Saskatchewan Administrative District within those boundaries. 

    A map with fire ban boundaries can be found in the interactive fire ban map. 

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Staff Issues No-Action Letter Regarding Swap Data Error Correction Notification Requirements

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    CFTC Staff Issues No-Action Letter Regarding Swap Data Error Correction Notification Requirements | CFTC

    /PressRoom/PressReleases/9103-25
    Skip to main content

    July 31, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Market Oversight today has taken a no-action position with respect to reporting counterparties that fail to submit a swap data error correction notification with respect to an error if, at the time the reporting counterparty initially discovers and assesses the impact of an error; the reporting counterparty makes a reasonable determination that the number of reportable trades affected by the error does not exceed five percent of the reporting counterparty’s open swaps for the relevant asset class in swaps for which it was the reporting counterparty. 

    -CFTC-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFSCME’s Saunders: Congressional extremists in Texas can’t defend their records, so they’re rigging the game.

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    WASHINGTON – AFSCME President Lee Saunders released the following statement in response to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s plan to redraw the state’s congressional districts in his party’s favor:   

    “Greg Abbott and the anti-worker extremists in Texas’ congressional delegation know they can’t face voters after gutting health care, abandoning rural hospitals and schools, and driving up the cost of grocery and utility bills. That’s why they’re trying to rig the rules and shut working people out of the democratic process, especially working people of color, whose voices have been sidelined for far too long. Instead of being accountable to the people, they answer to billionaire donors who see our freedoms as a threat to their profits. But we won’t back down. AFSCME members, and the entire labor movement, are standing together to defend our democracy and ensure every voice is heard in the process — not just the wealthiest among us.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Announces An Investigation of CoreCard Corporation (NYSE: CCRD)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class Action Attorney Juan Monteverde with Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. The firm is headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and is investigating CoreCard Corporation (NYSE: CCRD) related to its sale to Euronet Worldwide for an exchange ratio between 0.2783 and 0.3142 of Euronet common stock per share of CoreCard. Is it a fair deal?

    Click here for more info https://monteverdelaw.com/case/corecard-corporation/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE EQUAL. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No one is above the law. If you own common stock in the above listed company and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: FLINT Announces Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FLINT Corp. (“FLINT” or the “Company”) (TSX: FLNT) today announced its results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. All amounts are in Canadian dollars and expressed in thousands of dollars unless otherwise noted.

    “EBITDAS” and “Adjusted EBITDAS” are not standard measures under IFRS. Please refer to the Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of this press release for a description of these items and limitations of their use.

    “Our continued commitment to quality execution and disciplined business optimization was once again evident this quarter. Despite a year over year decline in revenues, we delivered improved operating results, demonstrating the resilience of our operating model and the strength of our team,” said Barry Card, Chief Executive Officer.

    “Second quarter revenues, gross profit, and Adjusted EBITDAS all increased compared to the first quarter of 2025. Activity levels were slightly lower than the same period last year, with revenues down approximately 10% in that timeframe. At the same time, gross profit in the second quarter of 2025 reached $18.5 million, and Adjusted EBITDAS was $9.6 million, representing increases of 3% and 16%, respectively, over the second quarter of 2024. Given the current economic and geopolitical landscape, we are seeing delays in the timing of work awarded and executed by our customers. As a result, we anticipate activity levels for the remainder of 2025 to remain broadly consistent with the first half of the year,” added Mr. Card.

    SECOND QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

    • Revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was $148.3 million, representing a decrease of $16.6 million or 10.1% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of $10.4 million or 7.6% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Gross profit for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was $18.5 million, representing an increase of $0.5 million or 2.9% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of $4.1 million or 28.5% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Gross profit margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 12.5%, as compared to 10.9% in the same period in 2024 and 10.4% in the first quarter of 2025.
    • Adjusted EBITDAS for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was $9.6 million, representing an increase of $1.3 million or 16.1% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of $4.5 million or 88.3% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Adjusted EBITDAS margin was 6.5% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, representing an increase of 1.5% from the same period in 2024 and an increase of 2.8% from the first quarter of 2025.
    • Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2025 were $9.4 million, representing a decrease of $0.8 million or 7.5% from the same period in 2024 and was consistent with the first quarter of 2025. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 6.3%, as compared to 6.2% in the same period in 2024 and 6.8% in the first quarter of 2025.
    • Liquidity, including cash and available credit facilities, was $97.4 million at June 30, 2025, as compared to $41.7 million from the same period in 2024, representing an increase of $55.7 million or 133.5%.
    • New contract awards and renewals totaled approximately $56.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and $8.8 million for the first three weeks of July. Approximately 68% of the work is expected to be completed in 2025.

    SECOND QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

    ($ thousands, except per share amounts) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,
    2025   2024   % Change   2025   2024   % Change  
                   
    Revenue ($) 148,302   164,922   (10.1 ) 286,183   311,785   (8.2 )
                   
    Gross Profit ($) 18,508   17,978   2.9   32,909   30,988   6.2  
    Gross Profit Margin (%) 12.5   10.9   1.6   11.5   9.9   1.6  
                   
    Adjusted EBITDAS (1) 9,639   8,305   16.1   14,757   11,493   28.4  
    Adjusted EBITDAS Margin (%) 6.5   5.0   1.5   5.2   3.7   1.5  
                   
    SG&A ($) 9,416   10,181   (7.5 ) 18,777   20,237   (7.2 )
    SG&A Margin (%) 6.3   6.2   0.1   6.6   6.5   0.1  
                   
    Net income (loss) from continuing operations ($) 1,106   (588 ) 288.1   (2,226 ) (5,374 ) 58.6  
    Net income (loss) ($) 1,100   (606 ) 281.5   (2,241 ) (5,618 ) 60.1  
                   
    Basic and Diluted:              
    Net income (loss) per share from continuing operations ($) 0.01   0.00   —   (0.02 ) (0.05 ) 59.5  
    Net income (loss) per share ($) 0.01   0.00   —   (0.02 ) (0.05 ) 59.5  
    (1) EBITDAS and Adjusted EBITDAS are not standardmeasures under IFRS and they are defined in the section “Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures”
     

    Revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was $148,302 and $286,183 compared to $164,922 and $311,785 for the same periods in 2024, representing a decrease of 10.1% and 8.2%. The decrease in revenue was primarily due to the timing of construction and maintenance work as compared to the same periods in 2024.

    Gross profit for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was $18,508 and $32,909 compared to $17,978 and $30,988 for the same periods in 2024, representing an increase of 2.9% and 6.2%. Gross profit margin for three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was 12.5% and 11.5%, compared to 10.9% and 9.9% for the same periods in 2024. The increase in gross profit, both on an absolute basis and as a percentage of revenue, was primarily due to the mix of work compared to the same periods in 2024.

    SG&A expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 were $9,416 and $18,777, in comparison to $10,181 and $20,237 for the same periods in 2024, representing a decrease of 7.5% and 7.2%. As a percentage of revenue, SG&A expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 were 6.3% and 6.6% compared to 6.2% and 6.5% for the same periods in 2024. The decrease in SG&A expenses is primarily driven by reduced personnel expenses.

    For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, Adjusted EBITDAS was $9,639 and $14,757 compared to $8,305 and $11,493 for the same periods in 2024. As a percentage of revenue, Adjusted EBITDAS was 6.5% and 5.2% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to 5.0% and 3.7% for the same periods in 2024.

    Income from continuing operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 was income of $1,106 and a loss of $2,226 compared to a loss of $588 and a loss of $5,374 for the same periods in 2024. The variance was driven primarily by the increase in gross profit and lower SG&A expenses.

    LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

    FLINT has an asset-based revolving credit facility (the “ABL Facility”) providing for maximum borrowings of up to $50.0 million with a Canadian chartered bank. The amount available under the ABL Facility will vary from time to time based on the borrowing base determined with reference to the accounts receivable of FLINT and certain of its subsidiaries. The maturity date of the ABL Facility is April 14, 2027.

    The Company anticipates that its liquidity (cash on hand and available credit facilities) and cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet its short-term contractual obligations. To maintain compliance with its financial covenants through June 30, 2026, the Company can request approval from the holder of the Senior Secured Debentures to pay interest on the Senior Secured Debentures in kind.

    As at June 30, 2025, the issued and outstanding share capital included 110,001,239 Common Shares, 127,732 Series 1 Preferred Shares, and 40,100 Series 2 Preferred Shares.

    The Series 1 Preferred Shares (having an aggregate value of $127.732 million) are convertible at the option of the holder into Common Shares at a price of $0.35/share and the Series 2 Preferred Shares (having an aggregate value of $40.100 million) are convertible into Common Shares at a price of $0.10/share.

    The Series 1 and Series 2 Preferred Shares have a 10% fixed cumulative preferential cash dividend payable when the Company has sufficient monies to be able to do so, including under the provisions of applicable law and contracts affecting the Company. The Board of Directors of the Company does not intend to declare or pay any cash dividends until the Company’s balance sheet and liquidity position supports the payment. As at June 30, 2025, the accrued and unpaid dividends on the Series 1 and Series 2 shares totaled $118.6 million. Any accrued and unpaid dividends are convertible in certain circumstances at the option of the holder into additional Series 1 and Series 2 Preferred Shares.

    CORPORATE UPDATES

    The annual meeting of holders of common shares of the Corporation was held on June 24, 2025. At the meeting, shareholders approved the election of Sean McMaster, Barry Card, H. Fraser Clarke, Katrisha Gibson, Karl Johannson and Dean MacDonald as directors and the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as auditors.

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    Our unaudited condensed interim financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and the related Management’s Discussion and Analysis of the operating and financial results can be accessed on our website at www.flintcorp.com and will be available shortly through SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    About FLINT Corp.

    With a legacy of excellence and experience stretching back more than 100 years, FLINT provides solutions for the Energy and Industrial markets including: Oil & Gas (upstream, midstream and downstream), Petrochemical, Mining, Power, Agriculture, Forestry, Infrastructure and Water Treatment. With offices strategically located across Canada and a dedicated workforce, we provide maintenance, construction, wear technology and environmental services that help our customers bring their resources to our world. For more information about FLINT, please visit www.flintcorp.com or contact:

    Barry Card   Jennifer Stubbs
    Chief Executive Officer   Chief Financial Officer
    FLINT Corp.   FLINT Corp.
    (587) 318-0997    
    investorrelations@flintcorp.com    
         

    Advisory regarding Forward-Looking Information

    Certain information included in this press release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Specifically, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to: our business plans, strategies and objectives; the sufficiency of our liquidity and cash flow from operations to meet our short-term contractual obligations and maintain compliance with our financial covenants through to June 30, 2026; the payment of interest owing on the Senior Secured Debentures in kind; the Company’s approach to dividends; and that we anticipate activity levels for the remainder of 2025 to remain broadly consistent with the first half of 2025.

    Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual events or results to differ materially from the events and results discussed in the forward-looking information including, but not limited to, compliance with debt covenants, access to credit facilities and other sources of capital for working capital requirements and capital expenditure needs, availability of labour, dependence on key personnel, economic conditions, commodity prices, interest rates, regulatory change, weather and risks related to the integration of acquired businesses. These factors should not be considered exhaustive. Risks and uncertainties about FLINT’s business are more fully discussed in FLINT’s disclosure materials, including its annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis of the operating and financial results, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada and available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In formulating the forward-looking information, management has assumed that business and economic conditions affecting FLINT will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including, without limitation, with respect to general levels of economic activity, regulations, taxes and interest rates. Although the forward-looking information is based on what management of FLINT consider to be reasonable assumptions based on information currently available to it, there can be no assurance that actual events or results will be consistent with this forward-looking information, and management’s assumptions may prove to be incorrect.

    This forward-looking information is made as of the date of this press release, and FLINT does not assume any obligation to update or revise it to reflect new events or circumstances except as required by law. Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes.

    Advisory regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    The terms ‘‘EBITDAS’’ and “Adjusted EBITDAS” (collectively, the ‘‘Non-GAAP Financial Measures’’) are financial measures used in this press release that are not standard measures under IFRS. FLINT’s method of calculating the Non-GAAP Financial Measures may differ from the methods used by other issuers. Therefore, the Non-GAAP Financial Measures, as presented, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

    EBITDAS refers to income (loss) from continuing operations in accordance with IFRS, before depreciation and amortization, interest expense, income tax expense (recovery) and long-term incentive plan expense. EBITDAS is used by management and the directors of FLINT as well as many investors to determine the ability of an issuer to generate cash from operations. Management believes that in addition to income (loss) from continuing operations and cash provided by operating activities, EBITDAS is a useful supplemental measure from which to determine FLINT’s ability to generate cash available for debt service, working capital, capital expenditures and income taxes. FLINT has provided a reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations to EBITDAS below.

    Adjusted EBITDAS refers to EBITDAS excluding restructuring expense, gain on sale of property, plant and equipment, other income and one-time incurred expenses. FLINT has used Adjusted EBITDAS as the basis for the analysis of its past operating financial performance. Adjusted EBITDAS is a measure that management believes (i) is a useful supplemental measure from which to determine FLINT’s ability to generate cash available for debt service, working capital, capital expenditures, and income taxes, and (ii) facilitates the comparability of the results of historical periods and the analysis of its operating financial performance which may be useful to investors. FLINT has provided a reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations to Adjusted EBITDAS below.

    Investors are cautioned that the Non-GAAP Financial Measures are not alternatives to measures under IFRS and should not, on their own, be construed as an indicator of performance or cash flows, a measure of liquidity or as a measure of actual return on the shares. These Non-GAAP Financial Measures should only be used with reference to FLINT’s consolidated interim and annual financial statements, which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca or on FLINT’s website at www.flintcorp.com.

    (In thousands of Canadian dollars) Three months ended June 30,
    		   Six months ended June 30,
    		  
    2025   2024   2025   2024  
             
    Income (loss) from continuing operations 1,106   (588 ) (2,226 ) (5,374 )
    Add:        
    Amortization of intangible assets 64   67   129   135  
    Depreciation expense 2,635   2,715   5,400   5,332  
    Long-term incentive plan expense 900   775   1,900   1,375  
    Interest expense 4,715   4,733   9,244   9,315  
    EBITDAS 9,420   7,702   14,447   10,783  
    Add (deduct):        
    Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment (398 ) (274 ) (712 ) (443 )
    Restructuring expenses 314   581   868   976  
    Other income (171 ) (106 ) (327 ) (421 )
    One-time incurred expenses 474   402   481   598  
    Adjusted EBITDAS 9,639   8,305   14,757   11,493  
                     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bean Secures Release of K-12 Education Funds

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Aaron Bean Florida (4th District)

    WASHINGTON— Following urgent advocacy from U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04), the U.S. Department of Education has reversed its hold on critical K-12 formula grant funding. Congressman Bean’s letter to Secretary Linda McMahon played a decisive role in unlocking the funds, part of a $6.8 billion nationwide allocation that had been unexpectedly frozen, jeopardizing school district preparations just weeks before the start of the academic year.

    “Duval County Schools were counting on this money just weeks ahead of opening their doors for the new school year. That’s why I stepped in — and I’m proud to say the Department of Education heard our plea, and the money is on its way to Northeast Florida,” said Congressman Bean. 

    Duval County Public Schools will receive approximately $7.87 million from the restored funding—resources that will directly support staffing, classroom supplies, and essential student services. School leaders across the district can now move forward with confidence as they prepare for the fall semester. 

    “Congressman Bean, thank you! You are now and have always been a fierce advocate for our students. The news of this release of federal education dollars underscores the commitment you have demonstrated time and time again and will produce an improvement in our student outcomes.  Your advocacy in supporting students in North Florida is admirable, and I am ever grateful for the work you do for your constituents,” said Charlotte Joyce, Duval County School Board Member – District 6.

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Budd, Gillibrand, Lummis Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Stop Illegal Use of Digital Assets by Criminals and Terrorists

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) was joined by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) in reintroducing the Financial Technology Protection Act. The bipartisan bill aims to address the illegal use of financial technologies and digital assets to prevent sanctions evasion, terrorist financing, and money laundering.

    “While financial technologies are driving innovation and expanding individual freedom, criminals and terrorists are exploiting digital assets – putting both our financial and national security at risk. We must take these threats seriously and work toward solutions that put a stop to this rampant criminal activity. I introduced the bipartisan Financial Technology Protection Act to do just that, because we cannot continue to ignore this illicit abuse or hinder this pro-growth technology. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation before these crimes and threats escalate further,” said Senator Budd.

    “As financial technology continues to evolve, we must ensure it strengthens, not threatens, our national security. The bipartisan Financial Technology Protection Act would establish an independent working group that brings together government agencies, regulators, and industry experts to proactively identify emerging risks and develop robust, innovative solutions. This collaborative discourse will ensure we can keep our financial systems safe while bolstering the United States’ leadership on digital asset innovation on the global stage. This bipartisan legislation has already passed the House four times, including a unanimous vote in House Financial Services earlier this month. I look forward to working with Senator Budd to advance it in the Senate,” said Senator Gillibrand.

    “Digital assets are the future of American financial innovation and it is critical that as we craft pro-growth legislation that we also maintain security standards. The Financial Technology Protection Act strikes the right balance of developing safeguards against illicit activities without stifling the innovation that makes our digital economy thrive. I am proud to join Senator Budd in securing America’s position as a leader in the digital asset space while protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of our financial system,” said Senator Lummis.   

    Read the full bill text HERE.

    BACKGROUND 

    Financial Technology Protection Act:

    • Establishes an independent working group to combat terrorism and illicit financing, made up of:
      • Representatives from the following agencies: Department of the Treasury, Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Secret Service, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and Drug Enforcement Administration.
      • Private sector participation from: Financial Technology Companies, Blockchain Intelligence Companies, Financial Institutions, Research Organizations, and Privacy and Civil Liberties Organizations.

    Senator Budd’s legislation was included in the Senate’s market structure bill, led by Senate Subcommittee on Digital Assets Chair Lummis. This legislative package will provide the crypto industry with the regulatory certainty needed to unlock new investments and innovation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Tillis, colleagues introduce framework to combat foreign online piracy, protect American copyright holders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) introduced a discussion draft of the Block Bad Electronic Art and Recording Distributors (Block BEARD) Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that would allow copyright owners who have had their property stolen to seek U.S. federal court action in order to block dedicated foreign online piracy operations from making that stolen content available to American households.

    “Foreign websites pirating American movies, TV shows, art, and books steal tens of billions of dollars from the U.S. economy each year,” said Senator Coons. “This costs our creative community hundreds of thousands of jobs. Today, the United States takes an important step to join the many other nations around the world that have begun to crack down on foreign IP theft. This bipartisan legislation will give Americans the tools they need to protect their intellectual property rights, while ensuring the internet remains a vibrant forum for free speech. I look forward to working with my colleagues and with stakeholders on all sides of this issue to advance this much-needed bill.”

    “Foreign piracy sites are stealing from American creators, threatening good-paying jobs, and exposing U.S. consumers to real online harms via malware, identity theft, and the like,” said Senator Tillis. “The Block BEARD Act gives us a smart, targeted tool to stop these criminal operations at the source without infringing on legitimate speech or due process. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan discussion to protect our creative economy and digital security and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the House to address this important matter.”

    “Tennessee’s thriving creative community must be protected from the theft of creative works by foreign criminals,” said Senator Blackburn. “Foreign piracy operations jeopardize the American creative industry through phishing, identity theft, and financial fraud, and the Block BEARD Act would protect creators by enabling them to pursue legal action in U.S. federal courts against these criminals.”

    “I’m proud to join my colleagues in this effort to protect creators and consumers alike from foreign criminal enterprises seeking to steal our intellectual property and exploit Americans,” said Senator Schiff. “As Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Intellectual Property and a steadfast advocate for the creative community, I understand that robust protections are essential for innovation and economic growth in the digital age. This commonsense approach will provide the courts with the tools they need to combat foreign piracy operations and help level the playing field for American artists and creators who deserve to be fairly compensated for their work.”

    “We are grateful to Senators Tillis, Coons, Blackburn, and Schiff for their leadership in crafting a carefully tailored proposal that empowers US federal courts to protect consumers, rightsholders, and markets from large scale foreign piracy while preserving the protections contained in the DMCA,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman and CEO, Recording Industry Association of America. “Similar tools have been proven effective around the world over the last ten years with no harm to speech, Internet infrastructure or security, or participation online, and we strongly support this effort to create a simple, effective, judicial remedy with due process in the U.S.”

    “Piracy steals hundreds of thousands of jobs from the film and television industry, drains billions from the U.S. economy, and puts millions of American consumers at risk – and the Block BEARD Act will provide us with a safe and effective way to counter this danger and combat large-scale copyright infringement,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO, Motion Picture Association. “With bold leadership from Senators Tillis, Coons, Blackburn, and Schiff, the Block BEARD Act will equip our nation with a tool that’s worked in dozens of countries worldwide: a narrow, targeted means to fight the worst forms of foreign piracy while protecting free speech and the rule of law.”

    The Block BEARD Act would empower copyright owners to seek U.S. federal court orders against foreign websites dedicated to digital piracy, preventing them from making stolen content accessible to American households. To obtain relief, copyright holders must present evidence of specific harm and demonstrate the criminal nature of the targeted site. Courts could then direct internet service providers block access to the identified sites, while granting those providers immunity from liability, including for claims related to the petitioner’s actions. The legislation includes strong public interest safeguards to protect free expression, due process, and legitimate online services operating in compliance with U.S. law. This targeted legal tool mirrors successful approaches used in over 50 democratic countries to curb foreign piracy operations that undermine creative industry jobs and expose users to malware, identity theft, and fraud.

    You can read the full text of the draft here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Coons statement on SAC-D markup

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense (SAC-D), issued the following statement after the Senate Appropriations Committee marked up and passed the SAC-D bill out of committee by a vote of 26-3:

    “Our nation faces critical and pressing national security challenges, from China and Russia to cyberattacks and drone warfare. In the face of those dangers, the Trump administration has focused on fighting culture wars instead of deterring real wars, forcing our military to be funded by its first continuing resolution in its history and dragging their feet with a delayed and error-filled budget process for fiscal year 2026. We cannot prepare for tomorrow’s battles with yesterday’s funding plans.

    “This administration may not take funding our military seriously, but it’s clear that the Senate still does. Today’s successful markup shows a strong, bipartisan commitment to funding a military that stands with Ukraine and our allies, that deters Chinese and Russian aggression, that modernizes our defense based on lessons we’re learning in Ukraine, and that better supports our servicemembers and military families. From investing in shipbuilding to expanding our munitions production capacity to fill critical shortages, this bill is responsive to what our nation’s military leaders and combatant commands have directly told us they need.

    “I’m proud to have worked with Chairman McConnell to look to the future and advance a bipartisan defense appropriations bill. I urge my Senate colleagues to swiftly take up and pass our bill to reassert our constitutional authority over the appropriations process and ensure our military is equipped to face the challenges of this decade and beyond. I also encourage them to support the rest of the appropriations process so we can ensure that our nation’s soft power matches our hard power. If we spend less on diplomacy and development, we will have to spend more on ammunition.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Members Coons and Reed, McCollum and Smith call on President Trump to stop diverting defense funds to domestic immigration enforcement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – Ranking Member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Chris Coons (D-Del.), Ranking Member of Senate Armed Services Committee Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Ranking Member of the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), and Ranking Member of House Armed Services Committee Adam Smith (D-Wash.) sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth urging him to stop diverting military funds to support immigration enforcement operations usually handled by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

    The letter raises concerns about the Department of Defense’s (DOD) recent request to transfer funds from the Navy’s Working Capital Fund to cover non-reimbursable support for DHS’s immigration enforcement and removal operations. The proposed diversion is part of a DOD pattern of diverting funds to DHS-related efforts in ways that could weaken military readiness and make the United States less prepared to fight the wars of tomorrow.

    “Since January 2025, DOD has chosen to provide more than $838 million in non-reimbursable DOD support to DHS. Those transfers come at a cost; a dollar spent on immigration enforcement is a dollar unavailable to prepare and equip our troops,” the lawmakers wrote.

    The lawmakers highlighted that President Donald Trump’s recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act includes $1 billion for DOD and more than $170 billion for DHS, making the additional funding of immigration enforcement unnecessary.

    “With the funds now available to DHS, there is no need to continue non-reimbursable support to DHS, and the work of domestic immigration enforcement can and must be returned to DHS. Deploying military personnel for these tasks does not build lethality and risks politicizing those forces,” the lawmakers wrote.

    They conclude by urging DOD leadership to focus on the department’s core mission of military readiness and supporting our men and women in uniform.

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Executive Session to Consider Treasury, HHS Nominations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at an executive session to consider the nominations of Jonathan McKernan to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury and Alex Adams, of Idaho, to be Assistant Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary for Family Support.

    As prepared for delivery:

    “We meet today to consider favorably reporting the nominations of Jonathan McKernan, who is nominated to serve as Under Secretary for Domestic Finance at the Treasury Department, and Dr. Alex Adams, who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Family Support at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

    “The meeting this morning will provide members with the opportunity to offer remarks on the nominees. Following statements, we will recess briefly then proceed to this morning’s nominations hearing. Later today, we will notify members of the time and location of the vote on Mr. McKernan and Dr. Adams.

    “During his hearing, Mr. McKernan discussed his plans to use the Office of Domestic Finance’s wide-ranging authority to bring back sound and balanced regulation to our financial system. Properly tailoring regulation to underlying risks, rather than intangible policy goals, will provide much needed relief to financial institutions and the individuals they service. I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to accomplish this goal.

    “Dr. Adams spoke strongly about his belief that federal policy should strengthen, rather than supplant, parents’ capacity to make the best decisions for their children. As the Director of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Dr. Adams knows what policy decisions empower states to provide critical assistance to some of America’s most vulnerable populations. I am confident in his ability to lead the array of programs under the Administration for Children and Families at HHS.

    “I will be voting in favor of both nominations and I encourage all of my colleagues on the Committee to do the same.

    “Before turning to Senator Wyden for his remarks, let me take a moment to acknowledge the retirement of Bob Becker. Bob has been with the Senate Recording Studio for 34 years and is retiring in August, today’s executive session and hearing are his last – we are glad you get to end your career with the best Committee. He is the recording studio’s ‘Go-to Hearing Director’ and has been essential in directing hearing coverage, coverage of the Senate floor and working in the recording studio in various roles. We wish Bob all the best on his well-earned retirement and thank him for his many years of service.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Finance Committee Advances Treasury, HHS Nominations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Finance Committee advanced the nominations of Jonathan McKernan to be an Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Alex Adams, of Idaho, to be Assistant Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary for Family Support, each by a vote of 14-13. Following the vote, Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the statement below:

    “Congratulations to each nominee. Mr. McKernan’s extensive qualifications will help him restore sound and balanced regulation to our financial system, and he is well prepared to serve as Under Secretary for Domestic Finance. Mr. Adams strongly believes that federal policy should strengthen parents’ ability to make the best decisions for their children, and I am confident in his ability to lead the array of programs under the Administration for Children and Families at HHS. I look forward to their confirmations by the full Senate and working with them in these roles.”

    Executive session information can be found here.

    Read Chairman Crapo’s full statement at the nomination hearing here, and his statement at the executive session here.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Announces Finance Committee Staff Updates

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) today announced the following staff updates:

    Molly Newell, Chief International Trade Counsel

    Molly has been promoted to Chief International Trade Counsel. Molly joined the Finance Committee in January 2023 from Hogan Lovells US LLP, where she was an associate in the International Trade and Investment practice group working on issues involving trade remedies, customs, and U.S. trade policy. Before Hogan Lovells, she was a Senior Legislative Assistant in Representative Luke Messer’s (R-Indiana) office. Molly holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center; a Master in Economic Law from Sciences Po; and a B.A. in French and International Studies from Indiana University.

    Brian Bombassaro, International Trade Counsel

    Brian rejoined the Committee in March after working as a Senior Associate at Arnold & Porter LLP. Prior to that, he served under former Finance Committee Chairmen Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah). He received his J.D. from Yale Law School, M.P.P. from the Harvard Kennedy School and B.S.B.A. and B.A. from the University of Florida.

    Caitlin Wilson, Senior Health Counsel

    Caitlin joins the Committee from the Senate Budget Committee, where she participated in the reconciliation process to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as senior counsel. She previously served as counsel to Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roy Blunt (R-Missouri) and the House Energy and Commerce Committee under Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington). She received her J.D. from Catholic University in Washington, D.C., and her B.A. in Political Science from Gettysburg College.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at USTR, HHS, Treasury Nominations Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing to consider Bryan Switzer to be a Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR), Gustav Chiarello III to be an Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), Michael Stuart to be General Counsel of HHS and Derek Theurer to be a Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury.

    As prepared for delivery:

    “This meeting will come to order. Thank you to our nominees, Mr. Switzer, Mr. Chiarello, Mr. Stuart and Mr. Theurer for being here today. Congratulations on your nominations and thank you all for your willingness to serve.

    “We will first hear from Rick Switzer, who is nominated to serve as the Deputy United States Trade Representative (USTR) for Asia, Textiles, Investment, Services and Intellectual Property.

    “Mr. Switzer has over 25 years of experience advancing U.S. strategic interests both domestically and internationally. Throughout his career as a Foreign Service Officer at the Department of State, he negotiated international agreements, expanded market access for U.S. businesses, and protected American firms from unfair trade practices such as intellectual property theft and forced technology transfer. I look forward to working with him, if confirmed, to ensure that USTR implements policies that promote U.S. competitiveness, build supply chain resilience and address emerging global challenges.

    “Next, we will hear from Gus Chiarello, who is nominated to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Financial Resources (ASFR) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

    “The ASFR is responsible for providing advice and guidance to the Secretary on all aspects of budget, financial management, acquisition policy and grants supervision. If confirmed, Mr. Chiarello would play a vital role in managing and overseeing the allocation of resources across the full range of HHS programs. His experience in consumer protection, regulatory reform, competition and antitrust issues will make him a valuable addition to the HHS team. As an attorney who served at both the Federal Trade Commission and with the House Judiciary Committee, he is prepared to ensure HHS resources are stewarded to benefit all Americans.

    “We will also hear from Mike Stuart, who is nominated to serve as General Counsel of HHS.

    “The General Counsel supports the development and implementation of the Department’s programs by providing the highest quality legal services to the Secretary and the organization’s various agencies and divisions. Mr. Stuart will be instrumental in making sure that new laws and regulations are effectively implemented at HHS. He is well suited for the position given his decades of legal experience, including previous service as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. His experience prosecuting cases related to the opioid crisis and Medicaid fraud demonstrates a strong commitment to protect patients and root out waste and abuse in health care systems.

    “Finally, we will hear from Derek Theurer, who is nominated to serve as Deputy Under Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the Treasury Department.

    “The Deputy Under Secretary is responsible for advising the Secretary on congressional relations matters in order to assist in the formulation of policy and to determine the overall direction of the Department. Mr. Theurer is a veteran of Capitol Hill and undoubtedly understands the importance of keeping Congress informed of Departmental actions. Given his experience, I also expect him to prioritize timeliness in responding to inquiries from Congress.

    “Thank you again to our nominees for their time today.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Advocating to unleash our nations’ economic power

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province takes next step to improve Elk Valley water quality

    Fish, wildlife, ecosystems and communities in the Elk Valley will benefit from an updated plan to improve water quality in the region.

    The Province has updated the Elk Valley Water Quality Plan to improve how B.C. manages the effects of mining on water quality. This is the first time the Elk Valley’s area-based management plan has been amended since it was developed in 2014. The amendment follows a year-long consultation process with governments, First Nations, industry and the public.

    The updated plan includes clear expectations for managing and improving water quality, with goals and guidance for decision-makers. This will help ensure clean water in the Elk Valley and respond to concerns from the community and Ktunaxa First Nations governments.

    The amendment strengthens the ministry’s commitment to protecting the environment and wildlife in the Elk Valley, while supporting an industry crucial to the communities and economy of the region, province and country.

    This amendment is a milestone for the Province, restructuring the plan into a government-led framework for decision-making. The next amendment planned will be a review of the selenium water-quality target for the Koocanusa Reservoir. Planning for this is underway and the Province will continue to engage with partners throughout this process.

    The Elk Valley Water Quality Plan has driven significant investments in water treatment and other strategies to address water quality, and these improvements are starting to become evident. Elk Valley Resources has invested more than $1.5 billion since 2014, and four more water-treatment facilities are being built. These new facilities aim to double the water-treatment capacity at Elk Valley Resources’s mines in the valley by the end of 2027.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the Elk Valley Area Based Management Plan, including water-quality improvements and the work in progress, visit: https://elkvalleywaterquality.gov.bc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Advocating to unleash our nations’ economic power

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Moran Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Biorefineries, Renewable Chemicals, and Biomanufacturing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced bipartisan legislation to enhance the ability of the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Products Assistance program to support the development of advanced biofuels, renewable chemicals, and biobased products. 

    The Agricultural Biorefinery Innovation and Opportunity (Ag BIO) Act will update the underlying loan guarantee program and restore a grant program to support public-private partnership investment in pilot and demonstration-scale facility development.

    “Developing our biomanufacturing capabilities is good for our farmers and good for our economy,” said Klobuchar. “This legislation will create jobs and strengthen the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Products Assistance program, while also solidifying America as a leading manufacturer of these products.”

    “Investing in the bioeconomy will provide new markets for our farmers while furthering the goal of domestic manufacturing, supply chain resiliency and energy security,” said Moran. “Developing innovative products like advanced biofuels will provide new and better products using home-grown feedstocks, creating new jobs and driving our economy forward.”

    “The Ag BIO Act represents a strategic investment that will be necessary if American manufacturing is going to lead the world in the production of plant-based materials,” said James Glueck, Executive Director of the Plant Based Products Council. “This bill provides a clear pathway to scale up biomanufacturing capacity, open new markets for farmers, and build more resilient domestic supply chains. The Ag BIO Act is more than a piece of legislation — it’s a much-needed tool for revitalizing rural economies and advancing a modern manufacturing strategy grounded in American agriculture,” Glueck added. “We are grateful to Sens. Klobuchar and Moran for their leadership and vision.”

    “This legislation represents a strategic investment in the future of rural America and the farmers, workers, and innovators who fuel our economy,” said John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association. “By backing next-generation biomanufacturing, the Ag BIO Act will help cement U.S. leadership in sustainable innovation while delivering economic opportunity where it’s needed most.”

    “The Ag Energy Coalition applauds Senators Klobuchar and Moran for proposing bipartisan legislation to modernize the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Manufacturing Assistance Program as part of the upcoming farm bill.  Biorefineries are the lifeblood of rural America in terms of driving manufacturing innovations, building new agriculture markets, and creating jobs and economic opportunity,” said Lloyd Ritter, Ag Energy Coalition.  “Revitalizing this program will help build and expand facilities to produce everything from SAF to biobased products and renewable chemicals. That is an essential investment in the nation’s energy and bioeconomy transformation and in a rural economic renaissance.” 

    “The Ag BIO Act is important to the future of our nation’s ag bioeconomy. The U.S. can, and should, be the world leader in bioproduct research, development, and manufacturing, and the investments in this bill will go a long way to help make that happen,” said Kent Roberson, Ag Bioeconomy Spokesperson. “In a future with a strong American ag bioeconomy, farmers will benefit from new markets for their feedstocks, consumers will have more options to satisfy their needs, and workers will have good-paying jobs close to home. We’re excited to see the bipartisan Ag BIO Act introduced and are eager to help Congress enact this important legislation.” 

    Klobuchar has been a long-time supporter of biofuels and biomanufacturing. 

    In January, Klobuchar and Moran joined Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) reintroduced the Farm to Fly Act, which would help accelerate the production and development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs to allow further growth for alternative fuels to be used in the aviation sector and create new markets for American farmers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province takes next step to improve Elk Valley water quality

    Fish, wildlife, ecosystems and communities in the Elk Valley will benefit from an updated plan to improve water quality in the region.

    The Province has updated the Elk Valley Water Quality Plan to improve how B.C. manages the effects of mining on water quality. This is the first time the Elk Valley’s area-based management plan has been amended since it was developed in 2014. The amendment follows a year-long consultation process with governments, First Nations, industry and the public.

    The updated plan includes clear expectations for managing and improving water quality, with goals and guidance for decision-makers. This will help ensure clean water in the Elk Valley and respond to concerns from the community and Ktunaxa First Nations governments.

    The amendment strengthens the ministry’s commitment to protecting the environment and wildlife in the Elk Valley, while supporting an industry crucial to the communities and economy of the region, province and country.

    This amendment is a milestone for the Province, restructuring the plan into a government-led framework for decision-making. The next amendment planned will be a review of the selenium water-quality target for the Koocanusa Reservoir. Planning for this is underway and the Province will continue to engage with partners throughout this process.

    The Elk Valley Water Quality Plan has driven significant investments in water treatment and other strategies to address water quality, and these improvements are starting to become evident. Elk Valley Resources has invested more than $1.5 billion since 2014, and four more water-treatment facilities are being built. These new facilities aim to double the water-treatment capacity at Elk Valley Resources’s mines in the valley by the end of 2027.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the Elk Valley Area Based Management Plan, including water-quality improvements and the work in progress, visit: https://elkvalleywaterquality.gov.bc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Markey, Padilla, Schiff Decry Homeland Security’s Surveillance of Americans, Violation of Privacy and First Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (July 31, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) today led a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem on the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) recent usage of Predator drones and aerial surveillance against peaceful protesters in Los Angeles. This surveillance is a clear threat to the protesters’ privacy and their constitutional rights that are guaranteed by the First Amendment. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) also signed the letter.

    In the letter the lawmakers write, “Even if the technology were perfectly accurate, this form of surveillance could have a chilling effect on constitutionally protected rights, particularly freedom of assembly and speech. Protesters may fear that showing up at a rally could result in DHS or other government entities logging their names into a government database, sharing records with law enforcement, or even subjecting them to reprisal. That fear is not theoretical. Authoritarian regimes already use facial recognition to track down dissidents. But even in democratic societies, such tools can disproportionately target and harm communities of color, intensifying existing biases in law enforcement and eroding trust in public institutions.”

    The lawmakers continue, “On June 10, the Department posted a video to X — collected from a drone — overlayed with a dramatic soundtrack and a caption stating ‘WATCH: DHS drone footage of LA rioters. This is not calm. This is not peaceful. California politicians must call off their rioting mob.’ The publication of these videos appears to be a violation of the Department’s own requirement limiting the disclosure of video collected on an aircraft to authorized personnel with an authorized purpose. Americans could easily understand the publication of this video as an implicit threat to reveal the identities of protesters, instilling fear in any members of the public who seek to exercise their constitutionally protected rights to speech and assembly.”

    The lawmakers request responses by August 21, 2025, to questions including:

    1. What cameras, radar, or other surveillance equipment were equipped on the Predator drones that flew over Paramount and Los Angeles during the June protests?
    2. Did DHS officials identify any individuals based on information collected by the unmanned aircraft that surveilled the California protests, including in combination with other information or with the assistance of facial recognition technology?
    3. Which agencies and officials requested support from the Predator drones, when was the request made, and when and by whom were they approved?
    4. What data privacy protocols are currently used to govern information captured by aerial surveillance at U.S. protests?
    5. How are DHS staff with access to aerial surveillance data trained on data management protocols?
    6. What was the approval process for publishing videos taken by the Predator drones of the protests in Los Angeles on X?
    7. Has DHS deployed manned or unmanned aircraft systems to photograph, record, or otherwise monitor other protests since January 20, 2025?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Moran Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Biorefineries, Renewable Chemicals, and Biomanufacturing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced bipartisan legislation to enhance the ability of the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Products Assistance program to support the development of advanced biofuels, renewable chemicals, and biobased products. 

    The Agricultural Biorefinery Innovation and Opportunity (Ag BIO) Act will update the underlying loan guarantee program and restore a grant program to support public-private partnership investment in pilot and demonstration-scale facility development.

    “Developing our biomanufacturing capabilities is good for our farmers and good for our economy,” said Klobuchar. “This legislation will create jobs and strengthen the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Products Assistance program, while also solidifying America as a leading manufacturer of these products.”

    “Investing in the bioeconomy will provide new markets for our farmers while furthering the goal of domestic manufacturing, supply chain resiliency and energy security,” said Moran. “Developing innovative products like advanced biofuels will provide new and better products using home-grown feedstocks, creating new jobs and driving our economy forward.”

    “The Ag BIO Act represents a strategic investment that will be necessary if American manufacturing is going to lead the world in the production of plant-based materials,” said James Glueck, Executive Director of the Plant Based Products Council. “This bill provides a clear pathway to scale up biomanufacturing capacity, open new markets for farmers, and build more resilient domestic supply chains. The Ag BIO Act is more than a piece of legislation — it’s a much-needed tool for revitalizing rural economies and advancing a modern manufacturing strategy grounded in American agriculture,” Glueck added. “We are grateful to Sens. Klobuchar and Moran for their leadership and vision.”

    “This legislation represents a strategic investment in the future of rural America and the farmers, workers, and innovators who fuel our economy,” said John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association. “By backing next-generation biomanufacturing, the Ag BIO Act will help cement U.S. leadership in sustainable innovation while delivering economic opportunity where it’s needed most.”

    “The Ag Energy Coalition applauds Senators Klobuchar and Moran for proposing bipartisan legislation to modernize the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Manufacturing Assistance Program as part of the upcoming farm bill.  Biorefineries are the lifeblood of rural America in terms of driving manufacturing innovations, building new agriculture markets, and creating jobs and economic opportunity,” said Lloyd Ritter, Ag Energy Coalition.  “Revitalizing this program will help build and expand facilities to produce everything from SAF to biobased products and renewable chemicals. That is an essential investment in the nation’s energy and bioeconomy transformation and in a rural economic renaissance.” 

    “The Ag BIO Act is important to the future of our nation’s ag bioeconomy. The U.S. can, and should, be the world leader in bioproduct research, development, and manufacturing, and the investments in this bill will go a long way to help make that happen,” said Kent Roberson, Ag Bioeconomy Spokesperson. “In a future with a strong American ag bioeconomy, farmers will benefit from new markets for their feedstocks, consumers will have more options to satisfy their needs, and workers will have good-paying jobs close to home. We’re excited to see the bipartisan Ag BIO Act introduced and are eager to help Congress enact this important legislation.” 

    Klobuchar has been a long-time supporter of biofuels and biomanufacturing. 

    In January, Klobuchar and Moran joined Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) reintroduced the Farm to Fly Act, which would help accelerate the production and development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs to allow further growth for alternative fuels to be used in the aviation sector and create new markets for American farmers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Markey, Padilla, Schiff Decry Homeland Security’s Surveillance of Americans, Violation of Privacy and First Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (July 31, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) today led a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem on the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) recent usage of Predator drones and aerial surveillance against peaceful protesters in Los Angeles. This surveillance is a clear threat to the protesters’ privacy and their constitutional rights that are guaranteed by the First Amendment. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) also signed the letter.

    In the letter the lawmakers write, “Even if the technology were perfectly accurate, this form of surveillance could have a chilling effect on constitutionally protected rights, particularly freedom of assembly and speech. Protesters may fear that showing up at a rally could result in DHS or other government entities logging their names into a government database, sharing records with law enforcement, or even subjecting them to reprisal. That fear is not theoretical. Authoritarian regimes already use facial recognition to track down dissidents. But even in democratic societies, such tools can disproportionately target and harm communities of color, intensifying existing biases in law enforcement and eroding trust in public institutions.”

    The lawmakers continue, “On June 10, the Department posted a video to X — collected from a drone — overlayed with a dramatic soundtrack and a caption stating ‘WATCH: DHS drone footage of LA rioters. This is not calm. This is not peaceful. California politicians must call off their rioting mob.’ The publication of these videos appears to be a violation of the Department’s own requirement limiting the disclosure of video collected on an aircraft to authorized personnel with an authorized purpose. Americans could easily understand the publication of this video as an implicit threat to reveal the identities of protesters, instilling fear in any members of the public who seek to exercise their constitutionally protected rights to speech and assembly.”

    The lawmakers request responses by August 21, 2025, to questions including:

    1. What cameras, radar, or other surveillance equipment were equipped on the Predator drones that flew over Paramount and Los Angeles during the June protests?
    2. Did DHS officials identify any individuals based on information collected by the unmanned aircraft that surveilled the California protests, including in combination with other information or with the assistance of facial recognition technology?
    3. Which agencies and officials requested support from the Predator drones, when was the request made, and when and by whom were they approved?
    4. What data privacy protocols are currently used to govern information captured by aerial surveillance at U.S. protests?
    5. How are DHS staff with access to aerial surveillance data trained on data management protocols?
    6. What was the approval process for publishing videos taken by the Predator drones of the protests in Los Angeles on X?
    7. Has DHS deployed manned or unmanned aircraft systems to photograph, record, or otherwise monitor other protests since January 20, 2025?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Markey, Reps. Schakowsky, Ruiz, Jayapal Introduce Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution Outlining 21st Century Global Health Strategy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Resolution Text (PDF)

    Washington (July 31, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), along with Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25), and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), today introduced the Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution, to honor Dr. Farmer’s staggering life and legacy and lay out his extraordinary vision for realizing global health equity. This resolution lays out a 21st century global health strategy that proposes spending $125 billion annually on global health aid, reforming aid to focus on building national health systems, and putting an end to the exploitation of impoverished countries to increase their domestic tax base and health spending. This resolution seeks to save over 100 million lives per decade by increasing the flow of money in the global economy.

    “Dr. Paul Farmer was a health care visionary and revolutionary who understood compassion and care went hand in hand. At a time when global health and well-being are strained, I am proud to introduce this resolution honoring Dr. Farmer and the transformational work he did to deliver health care to people and communities around the world. Health is the first wealth, and we must do everything in our power to ensure that people around the world are healthy, safe, and have access to the resources they need to live and thrive,” said Senator Markey.

    “Dr. Paul Farmer is responsible for transforming the lives of millions and millions of poor and marginalized people around the world, bringing them health care, dignity, and justice. A true visionary, Paul insisted that all people have a right to excellent health care, and he developed the systems to deliver it in places people had written off. Gleaming world class hospitals and locally trained doctors, nurses, and community workers now exist in places like Haiti and Rwanda. Paul was not only a world-renowned leader in global health, but also a precious friend and a tireless organizer, inspiring thousands of people to actively participate in his work. All of us owe him a debt that can only be paid by carrying on his mission and legacy,” said Congresswoman Schakowsky. “That is why I am introducing the Dr. Paul Farmer Memorial Resolution alongside my colleagues Senator Markey and Representatives Ruiz and Jayapal. This resolution lays out a 21st Century Global Health Strategy that enshrines Paul’s vision to achieve global universal health care and end unnecessary and preventable deaths. We are the richest country in the world at the richest time in the world. As the Trump Administration rips away lifesaving aid from millions of people, it is more important than ever for those of us who care about global health and justice to rededicate ourselves to building and fully funding a robust global health strategy. Paul called on us to understand global health inequity as an injustice—a result of centuries of violence and exploitation inflicted on the global poor. We can make the choice to end global health inequity, and with Paul’s vision guiding us, we will.”

    “Dr. Paul Farmer was more than a global health leader, he was my mentor, professor, and dear friend,” said Congressman Ruiz. “From my early years at Harvard Medical School to our work together in Boston, Chiapas, Guatemala, and post-earthquake Haiti, he showed me what it means to fight for underserved communities with unwavering dedication. I am honored to help reintroduce this resolution in his memory, as a testament to his extraordinary impact on humanity.”

    “Dr. Paul Farmer changed global health for the better with his work in impoverished countries, treating infectious diseases and providing high quality care to those who needed it most. He also fundamentally altered the way we think about international aid, and his organizing and movement building has led to millions of people worldwide living healthier and longer lives. As a lifelong organizer and someone who worked in global health for years before coming to Congress, I know the importance of this work and know how devastating Trump and Republicans’ cuts to USAID and other international aid programs are. This resolution outlines a vision for a world in which we tackle the injustice of global health inequities and treat health care as a true human right. It also recognizes that to achieve these goals, we need to democratize the global financial system, including cancelling predatory debt that has often crushed low- and middle-income countries. I’m proud to co-lead it with Representatives Schakowsky and Ruiz,” said Congresswoman Jayapal.

    The proposals in the resolution are as follows:

    • Increase global health aid to $125 billion per year
      • Close the essential universal health care financing gap for low-income countries
      • Allow the U.S. to meet the U.N. aid target of 0.7% GNI for the first time ever
    • Reform global health aid
      • Focus on building national health systems and direct funding to local partners, not the development industry
      • Develop new medical technologies for diseases of poverty and ensure their availability as global public goods
    • Make the global economy more fair, just, and democratic
      • Democratizing the IMF, World Bank, and World Trade Organization, so that poor countries have greater say over decisions that affect their economies and their ability to finance health systems
      • Global debt cancelation for all developing countries that need it
      • Ending harmful licit and illicit financial flows from poor countries—ending global tax havens and illegal practices like trade misinvoicing
      • Supporting global labor rights, such as a global minimum wage

    “In this moment of crisis, we need Paul’s vision for global health justice more than ever. Thankfully, that vision is captured in this resolution. It provides us with a much-needed roadmap for global cooperation based on solidarity and justice by getting to the root causes of unnecessary suffering and death, or what Paul called ‘structural violence’. This includes greatly improving development assistance for health, but also going well beyond aid to address ongoing extractive colonial arrangements, which preclude local investments in health systems,” said Sheila Davis, CEO of Partners in Health.

    As an infectious disease physician, Dr. Farmer earned accolades for treating patients in impoverished countries with high quality care, including those suffering from HIV and cancer. As a medical anthropologist, he was known for popularizing and deepening understandings of “structural violence,” the idea that social systems are designed to impoverish, sicken, and sideline select groups. As chief strategist of Partners in Health, he garnered plaudits for pioneering community-based treatment strategies, building teaching hospitals, and more. Dr. Farmer called on us to understand global health inequity as an injustice—an effect of centuries of violence and exploitation inflicted on the global poor. This resolution embodies that and will serve as a North Star that will guide the movement for global health equity for years to come.

    In addition to Sen. Markey, this resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).

    In addition to Reps. Schakowsky, Ruiz, and Jayapal, this resolution is cosponsored in the House of Representatives by Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Releases Discussion Draft of Legislation to Keep TikTok Online and Protect National Security

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Bill Text (PDF) | One Pager (PDF)

    Washington (July 31, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today released a discussion draft of legislation, called the TikTok Transparency and Data Security Act, that would address the national security risks posed by ByteDance’s ownership of TikTok without banning an application used by 170 million American users and 7 million American businesses. After President Donald Trump’s repeated illegal extensions of the TikTok divestment deadline, the next deadline is September 17, 2025.

    The TikTok Transparency and Data Security Act would eliminate the requirement that Bytedance sell TikTok’s U.S. operations or face a ban if the company (1) establishes transparency requirements about the content displayed and promoted on the application, and (2) limits foreign access to the data of TikTok’s American users. This two-pronged approach is designed to address the biggest risks from Bytedance’s ownership of TikTok.

    “For months, I have been urging my colleagues to find an alternative path to the TikTok ban that keeps TikTok online without jeopardizing national security,” said Senator Markey. “Today, I am proposing a new approach. The TikTok Transparency and Data Security Act abandons the failed effort to force Bytedance to sell TikTok and seeks to directly address the app’s national security risks. With Trump continuing to illegally extend the divestment deadline, it’s time for Congress to reassert its legislative power, fix its mistake, and consider a new approach to TikTok. I look forward to reviewing the feedback on this discussion draft.”

    In March 2025, Senator Markey, along with Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Chris Van Hollen D-Md.), sent a letter to President Donald Trump, requesting additional information on any efforts to keep TikTok online in the United States and urging the Administration to work with Congress on any potential resolutions to the TikTok ban. President Trump has not answered Senator Markey’s letter. On April 9, 2025, Senator Markey asked for unanimous consent to pass his Extend the TikTok Deadline Act on the Senate floor. Senate Republicans blocked it.

    On January 16, 2025, Senator Markey, along with Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to trigger the 90-day extension in the Protection Americans’ Data from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act to allow ByteDance additional time to divest from TikTok. On January 15, 2025, Senators Markey, Booker, and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Congressman Khanna (CA-17) introduced the Extend the TikTok Deadline Act, legislation that would delay the January 19 deadline by which ByteDance must sell TikTok or face a ban, by an additional 270 days.

    In December 2024, Senators Markey and Rand Paul (R-Ky.), along with Congressman Khanna, submitted a bipartisan, bicameral amicus brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse the D.C. Circuit Court’s decision in TikTok Inc. v. Garland, which upheld the TikTok ban established under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. On December 19, Senators Markey and Paul sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to provide TikTok owner ByteDance with a 90-day extension to either sell TikTok or face the ban.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Committee Advances Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Ban Member Stock Trading

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC— Bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters?(MI) to ban Members of Congress, the President, the Vice President, and their spouses and dependent children from holding, buying, or selling stocks has advanced out of committee. The legislation would immediately ban Members of Congress, the President, and Vice President from buying stocks and other covered investments and prohibit them from selling stocks 90 days after enactment. It also requires Members of Congress, the President and the Vice President to divest from all covered investments, starting at the beginning of their next term in office. The committee passed the Halting Ownership and Non-Ethical Stock Transactions (HONEST) Act, which is based on the historic bipartisan legislation that was approved last year that was negotiated by Peters and his colleagues. The bill was approved by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, where Peters serves as Ranking Member.

    “Americans deserve to have complete confidence that federal elected officials are working in their constituents’ best interests—not their own financial interests,” said Senator Peters. “By passing this legislation out of committee with bipartisan support, we are one step closer to getting this bill passed into law and finally barring bad actors from taking advantage of their positions for their own financial gain. I’m grateful that the Committee advanced this commonsense legislation that will help restore Americans’ faith that their elected officials are truly working on behalf of the people.”

    The bipartisan HONEST Act as passed by the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee would:

    · Ban Members of Congress, the President, and Vice President from buying covered assets immediately after enactment and from selling covered assets 90 days after enactment. Covered assets include securities, commodities, futures, options, trusts, and other comparable holdings.

    · Require elected officials, their spouses, and dependent children to divest covered assets beginning at the start of their next term in office.

    · Increase penalties for violations of STOCK Act disclosure requirements from $200 to $500.

    To see the text of the bipartisan HONEST Act as passed by the committee, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters Takes to Senate Floor, Calls for Bipartisan Action to Address the Growing National Debt

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) took to the Senate floor to share his concerns about the growing national debt and urge his colleagues to work in a bipartisan way to address this serious issue. The national debt now sits at more than $36.8 trillion, and as this number continues to rise, Peters underscored how it will negatively impact the daily lives of hardworking Americans.

    “The larger our debt becomes, the more money we must dedicate to paying it off, and that often means fewer resources that we can invest back in our communities. Whether it’s to upgrade infrastructure, improve our schools, or support local economic development in our communities,” Peters said during his speech. “It means fewer resources for critical programs that support early childhood education, boost workforce development, expand access to quality, affordable housing, and more. Things that actually benefit every person in this country.”

    During the speech, Peters also underscored the long-term impacts that high federal debt and interest payments have on both our economic and national security. This follows Peters’ work to introduce bipartisan legislation earlier this month that would require key Administration officials to issue a report every four years examining how the current U.S. financial situation may impact our ability to effectively respond to emerging economic or geopolitical crises and meet mandatory spending obligations.

    To watch the full video of Peters’ speech on the Senate floor, click here.

    “If we face another major emergency, like a pandemic or a global financial crisis, there’s serious concern that we may be too hamstrung by our debt to respond effectively.?This fact should concern every American,” Peters continues. “And as we work to address this issue in a tangible way, we need to make sure we understand the full scope of how our growing national debt threatens our national security.”

    Peters went on to reiterate the need for cooperation and bipartisan action to address our current financial situation with the urgency it deserves.

    “Instead of the political gamesmanship and polarization that has taken root in our democracy, this situation will require everyone, everyone rowing in the same direction. Congress will have to come together in a bipartisan manner to find commonsense measures that strategically address our nation’s debt, while investing in economic growth and hardworking, middle-class families,” said Peters.

    In the coming months, Peters plans to give a series of speeches on the Senate floor to further examine the dire situation posed by our national debt and discuss solutions for how to best address the issue moving forward.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters and Blackburn Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Create a National Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Strategy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC—U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) have introduced bipartisan legislation to help prepare the federal government for emerging cybersecurity threats posed by quantum computing—an advanced technology that could one day break the encryption algorithms protecting sensitive government systems, personal data, and national security secrets. The National Quantum Cybersecurity Migration Strategy Act would require the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to lead the development of a coordinated national strategy for transitioning federal systems to quantum-resistant cybersecurity standards. It leverages existing government expertise through the Subcommittee on the Economic and Security Implications of Quantum Science (ESIX), which would guide efforts to safeguard data before quantum computers become widely available.

    “It’s critical that the federal government be prepared for any threat posed by quantum computing technology, especially when it concerns our national security,” said Senator Peters. “My bill would help keep Americans safe by ensuring we have a quantum cybersecurity migration strategy to remain ahead of our adversaries and protect Americans’ personal data.”

    “Quantum computing is a rapidly advancing and promising technology, but it also poses new cybersecurity threats. The United States must be prepared for these cybersecurity challenges and remain the world leader is quantum technology,” said Senator Blackburn. “The National Quantum Cybersecurity Migration Strategy Act would ensure the federal government creates a road map to protect sensitive data and national security from emerging data security threats fueled by quantum computing.”

    While quantum computers aren’t in everyday use yet, they are advancing quickly—and once available, they could crack encryption that protects everything from classified communications to bank accounts and email communications. Because stolen data can be stored and decrypted later, experts warn that action must be taken now to secure systems with stronger, quantum-proof protections. This bill responds to that urgency by requiring federal agencies to begin migrating critical systems before it’s too late.

    The legislation builds on the 2022 National Quantum Initiative Act and the Quantum Cybersecurity Preparedness Act, which encouraged federal agencies to prepare for this transition. However, despite continued progress in quantum research, most agency data remains protected by outdated encryption standards or is not encrypted at all.

    To jumpstart that migration, the bill initiates a pilot program requiring each federal agency to transition at least one high-impact system to quantum-safe encryption. It also mandates that the ESIX Subcommittee evaluate which systems need urgent attention, identify standardized performance measures for agency migration efforts, and establish a clear definition of what qualifies as a cryptographically relevant quantum computer—removing confusion that can delay progress. By creating a practical path forward, the legislation ensures the federal government remains competitive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape and resilient against future cyber threats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Lieu, Daines, and McClintock Reintroduce Legislation to Protect Americans from Warrantless Government Surveillance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    July 31, 2025

    The bill protects the rights of Americans by stopping agencies from using “stingray” phone surveillance to track mobile devices without a warrant

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., with Senator Steve Daines, R-Mont., and Representatives Ted Lieu, D-Calif., and Tom McClintock, R-Calif., reintroduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation today to defend Americans’ rights by requiring warrants to deploy cell site simulators, also known as “stingray” devices, which are used by law enforcement agencies to track individuals and identify all phones in an area.

    The Cell Site Simulator Warrant Act creates clear legal standards for government agencies using stingray devices by requiring warrants and establishing penalties for unlawful surveillance.

    “Law enforcement agencies need clear and transparent rules about when it’s acceptable to use stingray phone surveillance, so they can properly investigate crimes without endangering Americans’ privacy or violating their constitutional rights,” Wyden said. “Our bipartisan bill protects Americans against warrantless stingray surveillance while setting clear rules for law enforcement about when and how they can use these devices.”

    “The last thing Montanans want is big government surveillance, including from the use of cell site simulators,” Daines said. “Montana already has commonsense warrant requirements for stingray use, and I’m glad to join with my colleagues on this bipartisan bill to make Montana’s requirements the law of the land.”

    “Our cell phones can contain all sorts of sensitive information — we need common sense solutions to ensure our data is protected,” Lieu said. “Cell site simulators (CSS) mimic cell towers and can be used by law enforcement to locate phones and collect large swaths of sensitive data from the public. I’m reintroducing this bipartisan legislation with my colleagues to set clear warrant requirements for using CSS and uphold the civil liberties of all Americans.”

    The Cell Site Simulator Warrant Act would:

    • Establish a probable cause warrant requirement for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to use a CSS. Like wiretaps, CSS must be a last resort tool when other methods have or are likely to fail.

    • Permit emergency use, enabling the government to get a court order after the fact.

    • Require that judges be informed about all potential side effects, including jamming 9-1-1 calls, as determined by an independent lab, while weighing the government’s surveillance interests against the impact to the community and public safety.

    • Require that data collected using a CSS from bystanders’ devices be minimized.

    • Create similar rules for intelligence agencies’ use of CSS authorized by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, including targeting of Americans abroad.

    • Provide for fines up to $250,000 for entities that illegally operate a CSS, except for using a CSS by those engaged in good-faith research or teaching.

    • Provide individuals illegally surveilled with a private right of action.

    • Require annual Inspector General reports on federal agencies’ using CSS.

    This legislation is the latest in Wyden’s years-long effort to conduct oversight in the government’s use of cell site simulators. In 2017, Wyden and other senators asked the Justice Department to update its policy to inform judges of the devices’ potential to interfere with 9-1-1 and other calls. In 2018, Wyden renewed that request, and later asked the Federal Communications Commission to ensure cell site simulators do not disrupt emergency calls.

    The text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Fischer Introduce MAP for Broadband Funding Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) introduced the Modernization, Accountability, and Planning (MAP) for Broadband Funding Act, to provide oversight of the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Broadband Funding Map to ensure it is functioning effectively for the public, federal agencies, and broadband providers.

    Cortez Masto and Fischer originally created the Broadband Funding Map as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. With oversight needed to ensure federal agencies are utilizing the Map to its full potential, the MAP For Broadway Funding Act will ensure that these agencies are reliably reporting their funding data to the FCC.

    “As we work to expand broadband access across the country, it’s critical that we do so with as much transparency, accountability, and coordination as possible,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Reliable access to the internet is already so important for people to work and take care of their everyday tasks. Congress must ensure we continue to expand its access efficiently.”

    “I have worked diligently for years to close the digital divide for unserved and underserved communities,” said Senator Fischer. “My work with Senator Cortez Masto was underscored by the Broadband Funding Map, which we created in 2021. While I’m pleased the FCC launched the Map in 2023, it is clear oversight is needed here to ensure all federal agencies are utilizing the Map to its full potential. I won’t relent in my efforts to expand Internet connectivity for those who lack access—this is a critical step in that mission.”

    The MAP for Broadband Funding Act provides fresh oversight for the FCC’s Broadband Funding Map to ensure the Map is functioning effectively, efficiently, and transparently as possible for the public, federal agencies, and broadband providers alike. To meet this goal, the bill:

    • Directs the FCC to conduct a Notice of Inquiry on the Map’s function and data it displays for maximum usability, assessing any necessary updates from a user-experience perspective, and
    • Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate how well federal agencies are populating the Map in compliance with current law, identifying any gaps in reporting for its optimum functionality. 

    As part of her Innovation State Initiative, Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts to improve broadband access and strengthen Nevada’s economy. She successfully called for increased accountability for federal broadband programs through efforts like the FCC broadband map which helped deliver the State of Nevada additional BEAD funding – totaling $416 million – through more accurate broadband accessibility data. The Senator has also passed her bipartisan ACCESS Broadband Act to establish a broadband oversight office in the Commerce Department, which administers the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law BEAD funding, provides technical assistance to communities, and tracks taxpayer dollars. Most recently, the Senator has condemned the Trump Administration’s reckless decision to rescind approval for states to receive their share of BEAD program funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Secures $15 Million Investment in Affordable Housing in Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto announced a $15 million investment into the Nevada Housing Division’s (NHD) single-family bond program from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank) of San Francisco. This investment will support the Housing Finance Agency’s down payment assistance program that helps Nevadans buy homes they can afford.

    “After my yearslong push, it is gratifying to see the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco finally investing more of their vast resources into programs that help working families in Nevada find homes they can afford,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I look forward to future collaboration between the State of Nevada and the FHLBank of San Francisco.”

    For years, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto has demanded that the nation’s 11 FHLBanks use their resources to invest in housing and community development. Following her push, state housing finance agencies, community development financial institutions, and other similar organizations have sought opportunities to benefit from the FHLBank’s $467 billion investment portfolio. Earlier this year, thanks to Cortez Masto’s work, the FHLBank made a first-of-its kind $10 million investment in the NHD’s single-family bond program. With today’s added $15 million investment, Senator Cortez Masto has now secured $25 million in investments for the NHD’s single-family program from the FHLBank this year.

    Senator Cortez Masto has been a leader working to push the FHLBanks to help lower costs and build more housing supply. Last year she secured $9.4 million from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) of San Francisco’s targeted competitive affordable housing fund — almost twice as much as Nevada received the year before — to build more middle-class homes, and she’s pushing to reform the FHLB system.

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